**EDEK Leadership Election Faces Controversy Over Excluded Voters**
*5 September 2026 – Cyprus*
The leadership election of the Movement for Social Democracy (EDEK) has been marred by controversy as reports emerge that over 700 party members have been barred from voting. This situation has sparked significant tension within the party, particularly at polling stations where affected individuals have expressed their frustration.
According to information from philenews, the party leadership has justified the exclusion of these members by claiming that they did not support EDEK in previous elections. However, critics argue that the decision to exclude voters should have applied only to those who had previously run as candidates for other political parties, rather than to members who simply did not cast their votes for EDEK.
Tensions escalated at one polling center when several individuals were denied their right to vote. Reports indicate that many of those affected were removed from the membership register without prior consultation. One notable case involved a member who was excluded despite having previously stood as an EDEK candidate in local elections, raising questions about the criteria used for voter exclusion.
The controversy is further compounded by concerns regarding the compilation of the electoral rolls. Sources suggest that the lists were prepared by a Credentials Committee appointed by the Central Committee, rather than by the Credentials Committee designated by the Extraordinary Congress. This discrepancy has led to calls for clarification on how the membership register was managed and who was responsible for the exclusions.
The issue of the membership register was formally addressed during EDEK’s Extraordinary Pancyprian Congress in July, where concerns about voting rights and member participation were raised. The current leadership vote is taking place at eight polling centers across Cyprus, as well as in Athens and London, highlighting the party's international presence.
As EDEK navigates this internal strife, the implications of these exclusions may resonate beyond the current election, potentially affecting party unity and member morale. Observers will be watching closely to see how the leadership addresses these grievances and whether any changes will be implemented to ensure a more inclusive voting process in the future.
The situation continues to develop as the party seeks to manage the fallout from this controversy while conducting its leadership election.